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Something must be left to chance; nothing is certain in a sea fight
Horatio Nelson
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Interpretation

What this quote means

In uncertain situations, some unpredictability is unavoidable.

Horatio Nelson's quote highlights the inherent uncertainty and unpredictability of life, particularly in high-stakes situations like a sea battle. It suggests that while we can prepare and strategize, we must also accept that some outcomes are beyond our control, and taking risks is a part of facing challenges bravely.

Themes

ChanceUncertaintyCourageRiskSea Fight

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about embracing risks and uncertainties in business.

More from Horatio Nelson

Firstly, you must always implicitly obey orders, without attempting to form any opinion of your own respecting their propriety. Secondly, you must consider every man your enemy who speaks ill of your king; and thirdly, you must hate a Frenchman, as you do the devil.
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Never break the neutrality of a port or place, but never consider as neutral any place from whence an attack is allowed to be made.
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To do nothing was disgraceful; therefore I made use of my understanding.
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Let me alone: I have yet my legs and one arm. Tell the surgeon to make haste and his instruments. I know I must lose my right arm, so the sooner it's off the better.
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In honour I gained them, and in honour I will die with them.
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Duty is the great business of a sea officer; all private considerations must give way to it, however painful it may be.
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